Eagle Era

FUSD is pushing an initiative to increase student involvement in the arts

By Jovina Zion Pradeep 

FUSD’s new district-wide film festival opens new doors for artists at AHS, where opportunities for creative expression often take a backseat to the pressure to pursue STEM interests.

For many AHS students interested in film, finding peers who share their passion can be difficult. As Film Club president Joshua Tsang (11) explained, “I think the festival is a step in the right direction, but the filmmaking community at our school is pretty small. Everyone here seems to like math and science more than art.” 

In a region where technology dominates both culture and career aspirations, Tsang sees filmmaking as an overlooked bridge between creative expression and technical skill. “Filmmaking is a hidden gem in Silicon Valley because the tech job market here is huge,” he said. “The film industry is particularly important because it combines aspects of business, tech, and a lot of other industries into one craft. I think that’s very unique.” 

Animators like Michelle Morel (12), who is passionate about social justice, believe that the festival’s biggest impact lies in how it encourages students to think critically about the world around them. 

“The film festival could spread awareness about societal issues to students who watch the films at the screening and the people working on the films who are sharing their ideas with each other,” said Morel. “It could give students experience working as a team and help them learn how to communicate effectively.” 

AHS animation teacher Mr. B.C. agrees that opportunities like this can be formative, especially for students who don’t yet see themselves as artists. The festival mirrors the real-world experience of creating with purpose and sharing work publicly. 

“Artists benefit by producing work with intent and allowing their work to be publicly viewed and reviewed,” he said. “Viewing artworks—taking the time to view the exhibits, the works, the shows, and talking with the creators—motivates interest in doing the same.” 

“The film festival originally started as an idea for a Battle of the Bands competition, which then morphed into a film festival based on Fremont’s recent and historical connection to the film world,” said Mr. McGrath (Art Credit: Jovina Zion Pradeep (12)).

While the festival is new, enthusiasm for it is strong across Fremont. Carolyn Hom, an Irvington HS junior and student organizer, said she joined to help shift attitudes toward art in FUSD. 

“Film has always been such a big part of my life. Once I heard that there was going to be a Fremont film festival and there was an opportunity for me to help organize it, of course I said yes,” Hom shared. “I think this is a great way for students to share their own little ideas. I hope that the festival changes student perspectives in Fremont by introducing more creative aspects into their lives.” 

Festival committee member Mr. McGrath, a film teacher at Washington HS, noted that students consistently exceed expectations. “People are always really surprised by the quality of movies students are able to put out.” 

For AHS students who often struggle to find creative outlets, the festival offers validation, community, and recognition. Through this initiative, FUSD is helping cultivate a school culture that values art, science, and technology more equally.